Why do Women Ride?

I had my first motorcycle ride when I was only 4 years old. It was on the back on of an old Harley army bike that my Dad brought home. It was the most incredibly exciting experience of my young life. I can remember seeing my Mom standing in the doorway with a tight mouth. I'll admit the possibility of being complicit with my Dad in something that my Mother disapproved of may have made it even more fun! We only rode a few blocks, but I still remember the feeling of exhilaration from the power of the acceleration. I loved the mix of feeling secure clinging to my Dad and realizing that we were rushing through open air unprotected and vulnerable. The memory was all the more powerful because of the fleeting duration of it. My sister had a ride too, but while getting off the back she didn't listen and climbed down on the hot exhaust. That was all it took for my Mom's disapproval to gain credence and the bike never became a permanent fixture in our family, only in my mind! I guess part of my reason for riding now is a tribute to my Dad, for sacrificing his desire to ride in order to provide for his three girls.

Reflecting on this makes me wonder what other women think about riding and what the impetus for starting was for them?